Nestle Cookie Dough Recalled After Reports of E. coli Poisoning

Nestle SA has announced a recall of its Toll House cookie dough because of fears of E. coli contamination linked to dozens of cases of food poisoning nationwide. About 47 varieties of the cookie dough have been included in the recall.

The Food and Drug Administration has warned consumers not to eat Toll House refrigerated and prepackaged cookie dough because of the risk of E coli contamination. The agency has asked consumers who may have any of the pre packaged cookie dough to throw these away. Consumers have been advised that they could face the risk of food poisoning even if they cook the dough, because the bacteria might be transmitted to their hands and cooking surfaces. According to the FDA notice, the contamination was exposed in a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local health departments.

So far, there have been 66 reports of illnesses from 29 states since March this year. 25 persons have been hospitalized and seven of these had suffered a complication called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome [HUS] which can end in kidney damage and even death.

E coli bacteria are transmitted through feces, and can spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms include cramping, bloody diarrhea and vomiting. Most case of E coli infection can be treated in about a week. However in other cases, complications can develop. Around 5 to 10 percent of patients may develop a complication called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome [HUS]. Symptoms include decreased frequency of urination, fatigue and paleness. Kidney damage may occur, and there may be other life threatening complications.

Persons who have recently eaten the dough must watch out for symptoms like abdominal cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. If any symptoms are seen, Georgia product liability lawyers would advise consumers to consult their physician immediately.